The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA): FOIA

"The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a law that gives you the right to access information from the federal government. It is often described as the law that keeps citizens in the know about their government." ~foia.gov

FOIA.gov

FOIA.gov is a government-wide portal for the Freedom of Information Act that was developed as part of the Department of Justice’s Open Government plan. At FOIA.gov, you have access to all the FOIA data collected by the Department of Justice on behalf of the federal government.

Happy National Freedom of Information Day and Sunshine Week!

March 16th is Freedom of Information Day! Celebrate by learning more about FOIA, and discovering what you have a right to know!

March 16-22 is Sunshine Week, and no, it's not about spring break. But since Sunshine Week occurs during spring break this year, we can celebrate now! Freedom of Information Day kicks off the week-long festivities, celebrating theFreedom of Information Actand your right to know executive branch information. Freedom of Information Day honors James Madison's birthday, March 16th.

This topical guide to FOIA is arranged by tabs across the top which group similar information together. On this tab, you’ll find the essentials of FOIA, as well as a list of agencies that make information available through FOIA. Hover over the abbreviations for the full title of the council, department, agency, foundation or office name.

For more information, see the tabs most closely relating to your area of inquiry. For example, if you are interested in some of the most common FOIA requests, select “Popular FOIA requests.”

Under "Research" you'll find assistance with citing sources you find in this guide using common citation styles.

Freedom of Information Day Celebration March 16, 2012

Sue Long received an award from the American University Law School for her career in pushing for governmental transparency. Afterward, she spoke about her experiences and the various roadblocks she has encountered, and progress made for the Freedom of Information Act. (FOIA). She also answered questions from the audience.

This was part of an American University Law School event celebrating the Freedom of Information Act.